Is It Safe for People with Alzheimer's to Drive?

Posted By Mount Carmel Assisted Living || 26-Jul-2017

For most people, driving is viewed as a symbol independence and freedom.
Taking away that privilege can be a frightening thought. However, seniors with
Alzheimer’s or
dementia will need to find different modes of transportation at some point in time.

In many cases, caregivers wait until a loved one is lost or is involved
in an accident before taking their driving privileges away. There are
several signs that caregivers can look for before their loved one is hurt
or harms others.

The following are telltale signs that mean your loved one should not be
driving any longer:

They are not driving at the legal speed limits

They ignore traffic signals

They become involved in minor fender benders

They get lost in familiar places

They cause others to have concerns about their driving

If you believe that your loved one should stop driving, they may need some
encouragement to come to terms with their actions and behaviors. Acknowledge
their feelings and be understanding with their disappointment. Help them
try new modes of transportation, such as taking the bus or train. Focus
on the positive aspects of not driving, such as saving money on gas and
insurance, as well as having less stress when dealing with traffic.

While studies show that there is no difference in the accident rate between
a person who has Alzheimer’s for two years (after the initial diagnosis)
and a person who does not, the accident rate increases as the disease
progresses.

For more information about our philosophy of care at our Hampton assisted
living facility,
contact us at (770) 824-3385.